The ever-evolving world of interior design continues to introduce fresh ideas each year, while other trends gradually fade. As we step into 2025, it's time to reflect on the styles that have overstayed their welcome and embrace new, exciting directions. Here are five interior design trends to leave behind in 2024–and what to expect instead.
The pandemic reshaped how we interact with our living spaces. Open floor plans, once synonymous with modern living, no longer meet the needs of privacy, functionality, and sound control that many desire today.
What's Taking Its Place: Cozy and intimate spaces that define specific functions. Think rooms with distinct purposes, comfortable furnishings, and thoughtful layouts that encourage connection and tranquility.
While crisp white interiors have dominated for years, they often lack the depth and personality homeowners now crave. People are moving away from sterile, museum-like spaces and towards a more lived-in, curated aesthetic.
What's Taking Its Place: Warmth and comfort. Add depth with earthy tones, textured fabrics, and curated collections that reflect your personal interests and history. Layering colors and materials will create a rich and inviting atmosphere.
Treating lighting as an afterthought and relying on generic lighting plans to light our spaces has been a standard for convenience over the years. Often relying heavily on recessed lighting or builder-grade fixtures, leading to a flat, uninspired aesthetic.
This type of plan typically neglects the layering of ambient, task, and accent lighting, resulting in spaces that are either too dim or overly bright, with poor fixture placement creating harsh shadows or uneven light. Predictable plans often lack customization, energy efficiency, or modern flexibility, such as dimmers or smart technology, leaving the home feeling outdated and poorly adapted to the occupants’ needs.
Lighting has developed to be a crucial element in defining how a space looks and feels. By planning for ambient, task, and accent lighting early in the design process, you can highlight key features and ensure every room is both functional and visually appealing.What's Taking Its Place: Functional and intentional lighting design. Layered lighting–a combination of ambient, task, and accent lights–adds versatility and beauty. Consider statement fixtures, dimmers, and natural light integration right from the start of your project.
Once a go-to choice for kitchens and bathrooms, basic quartz countertops are now seen as lacking individuality. Homeowners are seeking surfaces that convey uniqueness and intentionality.
What's Taking Its Place: Statement stone pieces. Choose one-of-a-kind slabs with striking veining or bold patterns to infuse character and elegance into your space. Natural materials like marble and quartzite are making a strong comeback.
Made from low-cost materials like particleboard or synthetic fabrics, these mass-produced items prioritize affordability over durability and quality, resulting in a short lifespan. While accessible, they contribute significantly to landfill waste and environmental harm due to their lack of recyclability and unsustainable production practices.
Although appealing for quick updates or budget-friendly options, fast furniture and disposable decor often end up costing more over time and perpetuate a culture of overconsumption.
What's Taking Its Place: High-quality, timeless pieces crafted to last. Opt for sustainable materials, vintage finds, and bespoke designs like custom metal shelving or furniture made from responsibly sourced wood. These choices not only reduce waste but also add character and longevity to your home.
With 2025 already here, these trends are redefining our spaces.
1. Curves + Arches
Softened edges and architectural arches bring warmth and a sculptural quality to interiors. Look for curved furniture, rounded windows, and organic shapes that add visual interest and a sense of softness.
2. Textured Walls + Ceilings
Natural textures are making waves. From plaster finishes to grasscloth wallpapers, these elements add warmth and tactile appeal. Don’t be afraid to experiment with textured ceilings for a fully immersive effect.
3. Maximalism
Minimalism takes a backseat as maximalism–with its emphasis on layering patterns, colors, and accessories–takes center stage. Think bold millwork details, eclectic decor, and a rich interplay of materials that tell a story.
4. Warm Woods + Rich Browns
Say goodbye to the dominance of rift-cut white oak. Burl wood and other richly grained, warm-toned woods are becoming the go-to choice for furniture and finishes. These materials bring a sense of natural beauty and sophistication
5. Bold Patterns
From animal prints to color-blocked tiles, bold patterns are injecting energy and character into interiors. Use them strategically on walls, textiles, or flooring to create a personalized and visually dynamic space.
As we settle into 2025, let these shifts inspire you to reimagine your home. By moving past outdated trends and embracing new, thoughtful design choices, you can create spaces that feel fresh, functional, and deeply personal. Ready to design+build your custom home? Contact us today.
